subject: Explore The City Of Baton Rouge [print this page] If you are heading down south any time soon, you should make a stop in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. This city is the capital of Louisiana and is the largest city in the state.
Baton Rouge is situated along the Mississippi River which provides some great views. If you are curious, this southern city actually has a lot of unique and exciting attractions.
If you have never been, keep on reading for a run down on what there is to do in Baton Rouge. For starters, this city is home to many historic buildings and sites.
The Louisiana State Capitol Building was built in 1931. The Capitol is filled with murals and sculptures.
It is also surrounded by many beautiful gardens and features an observation deck with captivating views. Another historic site is the Old Governor's Mansion.
This mansion looks similar to the White House and is open for visitors to browse through. It is no longer used as a mansion for the governor, but is occasionally used for events.
Next up is the Old State Capitol; with its Gothic Revival structure it really stands out. It overlooks the Mississippi and houses a museum.
Then check out St. Joseph's Cathedral. It is one of the oldest churches in the city which creates an interesting setting for visitors.
Other sites that are unique in the area are plantations. Baton Rouge is home to many of them as they played a large role in its history.
A few plantations and plantation homes that can be toured and visited are the Magnolia Mound Plantation, Myrtles Plantation, Oak Alley Plantation, Blythewood Plantation, Bocage Plantation, and San Francisco Plantation. Something else to do in Baton Rouge is visit one of the many museums.
The Enchanted Mansion is a museum full of dolls. Tour the mansion and enjoy the fun exhibits.
Then check out the Louisiana Art and Science Museum. Not only does this museum feature a permanent collection from renowned artists, but it also has interactive galleries for children.
It is sure to be a great spot for all ages. The Louisiana State Museum will teach you all about the history and culture of this southern state.
The West Baton Rouge Museum is another fun one to visit. It gives visitors an idea of what life was like on a 19th-century sugar plantation.
Last museum on the list is the USS Kidd and Nautical Center. This large boat has been restored to its WWII condition and sits downtown for all to tour.
Also in the vicinity is a Memorial Plaza with names of fallen veterans. It is sure to be a great historical lesson.
If you are interested in nature and the outdoors, you should visit the Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center. It is an area for visitors to tour, enjoy a picnic, or go on a walk.
While visiting you may even catch a glimpse of some of the animals who are native to the area. Another way to enjoy the great outdoors is by visiting the Alligator Bayou.
This is a fun attraction for all ages. Guests will board a boat as they make their way through swamplands.
Plenty of river birds and of course, alligators, will be seen. One last place to enjoy the scenery outdoors is the Hilltop Arboretum.
It features many plants, as well as nature trails to stroll along. If you have children, they are sure to have a good time at BREC's Baton Rouge Zoo.
Over 1800 animals await your visit. Another enjoyable attraction for families is the Audubon Aquarium of the Americas.
See fish, birds, sharks, stingrays and jellyfish in their natural habitats. Global Wildlife Center is another great spot for all ages.
Take a safari tour through this huge preserve. Animals roam free and are from all over the world.
You will even get the chance to feed and touch the animals during the tour. A few other fun places for kids are Bouncing Tigers, Celebration Station, Blue Bayou Water Park, God's Children Fun Center, and Laser Tag Baton Rouge.
Lastly, if you want some Louisiana style food, a few good restaurants to try are Bellue's Cajun Cuisine, Bistro Byronz, Boutin's Cajun Experience, Capital City Grill, and Cheesecake Bistro. There is so much to see and do in Baton Rouge, have a great time exploring!
